Costa Mesa had one of the top defenses in the county last season, thanks to an outstanding senior class that will be tough to replace. The Mustangs have a strong group of juniors who went undefeated as freshmen, and a handful of good-sized sophomores who will contribute. Leal and Ordonez didn't play as juniors because of the senior depth last season, but Howell expects them to do well. Sou, a second-team all-county player, tied for the county lead with nine interceptions last season. Weir was a sophomore starter at linebacker and will move into starting roles at quarterback and safety this season. Sandoval, Grubisich and Hulliger and bigger and faster than last year's defensive line, which helped the Mustangs record five shutouts in the regular season. Martin was the junior varsity team's most valuable player the last two seasons.